In a recent conversation with Dr. Dillon Blaquiere, a stroke neurologist and medical director of the Champlain Regional Stroke Network, details about an upcoming focus group were discussed. The focus group aims to gather insights from individuals with lived experience of stroke, including survivors and caregivers. It particularly seeks input from those under 65, lacking access to a regular family physician, facing delays in community services like rehabilitation, experiencing communication difficulties after a stroke, and women who have had strokes.
There will be a virtual session on November 15th. Interested participants can visit strokevoice.com to complete a questionnaire, providing demographic information and their experiences.
Dr. Blaquiere emphasized in an exclusive with myFM in the morning the importance of stroke awareness, as stroke is the third leading cause of death in Canada and the leading cause of disability.
He highlighted the signs of a stroke, which include facial drooping, weakness on one side of the body, and garbled speech, and emphasized the significance of calling 911 promptly for the best chance of recovery.
Overall, the focus group aims to improve stroke care in the region by gathering valuable input from those directly affected by stroke, ultimately working towards more responsive and effective services. if you’re unable to make it to the in person or virtual sessions, can call 613-798-5555, ext 162.19 to leave a message.
Written by Luke Notman
